Russia and Ukraine exchange accusations of ceasefire violations as fighting continues around Russia’s World War II Victory Day commemorations. Multiple outlets report that on Friday Russia declared a two-day unilateral ceasefire tied to its World War II events, including a parade on Red Square on Saturday. Ukraine and other reports say the truce does not hold, with both sides describing new strikes during the period.
France 24 and RFI state that after the ceasefire announcement, major attacks were launched on Friday and later, and that by Saturday each side accused the other of breaking a three-day US-brokered ceasefire. France 24 notes that no major strikes were reported at the locations it covered on Saturday, while DW reports that both sides still reported new strikes during the ceasefire period.
The outlets also link the timing to President Vladimir Putin’s planned parade and describe Ukraine’s position as criticizing Moscow for seeking a pause in fighting primarily to stage the ceremonies. Russia’s victory parade is also described as likely being subdued this year.
